Namoonai Ashoona

Cape Dorset, Nunavut Territory, Canada

(1926-2002)

Namoonai is the eldest son of Pitseolak Ashoona. His brothers are (in order of age) Qaqa, Koomwartok, Kiawak and Ottochie Ashoona, all of whom are well-known Cape Dorset sculptors. His sister is Napatchie Pootoogook (married to printmaker Eegyvudluk Pootoogook) who is a graphic artist. Namoonai’s late wife, Samiak Ashoona, was also an artist.

In 1974 Namoonai participated in the film White Dawn, which is based on the novel of the same name by James Houston.